FLAC vs. 320 CBR

[General Zod]

So... I'm considering upgrading my sound system. At the same time, I've been thinking about giving up on purchasing music in a physical format. So I had been considering converting my music collection to FLAC and buying FLAC going forward. However, it would seem I would have a difficult time finding everything I want in FLAC format. So my question for the audiophiles is, will the average person (me) typically notice much of a difference between FLAC and 320 Kbps CBR? Thanks.

 

[einride]

absolutely not.

if you doubt that, you can test yourself with ABX (blind test) software.

 

[Ellestin]

I've been thinking about giving up on purchasing music in a physical format.

 

[Vittra]

You won't hear a difference, but it will nag at you that if you are going fully digital you might as well do it right. Lossless (such as FLAC) or nothing.

Personally, I'd never pay for anything that is lossy. I'm still (rarely) buying CDs to rip into whatever format I want though, so...